2010 Subaru Forester review

In its first full redesign since the 2003 model year, the Subaru Forester has moved closer to the mainstream than some fans might have hoped it would. The old model's boxy charm has been toned down, and what's left is a compact SUV whose driving dynamics are on par with some of the nimbler players in this segment. A few Forester diehards may cry foul, but I suspect the changes will widen the car's appeal to the market in general. The SUV remains as practical as ever, but now boasts enough refinement to merit serious consideration from anyone shopping the latest Honda CR-V or Toyota RAV4.

Trim levels include the 2.5X and 2.5X L.L.Bean, along with turbocharged 2.5XT and 2.5XT Limited versions; click here to see a side-by-side comparison with the 2008 model. Subaru's full-time all-wheel-drive system is standard. I drove a number of configurations both on- and off-road at a press event in Southern California.

See also:

All-Wheel Drive warning light (AT models)
This light illuminates when All-Wheel Drive is disengaged and the drive mechanism is switched to Front Wheel Drive for maintenance or similar purposes. It flashes if the vehicle is driven w ...

With SAT mode selected
Press the “” button to skip forward in the channel order. Press the “” button to skip backward in the channel order. The channel will be shown on the audio display. ...

Entering the vehicle while it is running via remote start
1. Unlock the vehicle doors using the remote keyless entry system. If the vehicle’s doors are unlocked manually using the key, the vehicle’s alarm system will trigger and the remote engine start syste ...